MORE THAN

We met, "John", and his daughter, "Ellie" five days ago at the nearby hospital Emergency Room. John had been brought to the hospital hours before due to collapsing at home. John lives with his daughter Ellie. Prior, John had been independent and able to handle all of his personal needs.

John was in a deep sleep with heavy breathing when the hospice nurse and I walked in. Ellie had been informed by the physician that John likely had cancer. John's wife had died six years ago from cancer. It was at that time, John had discussed his medical wishes with his daughter. Ellie strongly felt that her father would not want any invasive treatment. She knows his wishes were to remain at home.

As I do with hospice admissions, I explain our program and have the patient or the family sign the admission paperwork. Ellie felt relieved as she felt reassured from the nurse and I that we could fulfill her father's wish to return home.

Thirty-six hours later, John died with family at the bedside. I called Ellie today to offer condolences and to educate her about our bereavement follow up support. It was then that Ellie spoke from her heart to me. Tears flowed as I felt so honored and humbled by her words. It is such a perfect example of why I continue to do this amazing work. Ellie said, "I will never forget you." Well Ellie, I so feel the same. Your gift to me was so outstanding and profound. I so humbly thank you.


MORE THAN

We met them in the Emergency Room.
His sudden decline undiagnosed.
We walked in to offer support.
Father and daughter alone in the room.

He was in a deep sleep.
She standing concerned by his side.
Her only focus was to bring him home.
She didn't need any more than that.

I softly spoke about the hospice benefit
while explaining the admission process.
"Not too worry; we will get him home
with our twenty-four hour support."

He made it home that afternoon;
but in thirty-six hours he was gone.
I called her today to offer condolences
and to validate all that she had done.

"For a reason you entered my life
          at exactly the right time.
You held my hand while giving me comfort.
You are so good at what you do.
I will never, ever forget you."

"I am so grateful we could bring him home.
I was holding his hand during his final breath
while his favorite chants were playing.
It was so peaceful; so amazingly peaceful."

With heartfelt gratitude; I said "Thank you",
with no other words to truly express.
This is such a perfect example of why I do this work.
It is so much more rewarding than
          a thousand fold return.